Burbank Water and Power (BWP) '''''accepted applications for photovoltaic (PV) rebates throughout July 2013. Winners were determined through a lottery on August 12, 2013. '''''Only systems under 30 kW were accepted for this round. '''''See web site above for more information.

Burbank Water and Power (BWP) offers customers either an up-front capacity-based rebate for photovoltaic (PV) systems, or a production-based incentive (PBI) with a maximum payment of $400,000 per year. These incentives decline over time as defined capacity goals are met, eventually declining to zero by the end of 2016. The program may change at any time to address market conditions. Current incentive levels and program details are posted on BWP's solar web site.

The highest rebate, Tier 3, is for schools, non-profits, and affordable housing and is available for only one project per fiscal year. Otherwise, these projects will qualify for the commercial rebate structure. Owners of systems smaller than 30 kW CEC-AC in capacity have the option to receive a one-time up-front payment (EPBB) based on the expected performance determined by BWP's PowerClerk rebate application software. Otherwise, these customers may elect to receive the PBI for five years of monthly payments, based on production. PV systems over 30 kW CEC-AC in size are only eligible to receive the PBI. Incentives for systems over 30 kW, however, have been suspended through August 2013.

Beginning January 1, 2010, all PV systems must include a BWP-provided performance meter. PBI customers must pay for the meter and any other meter-related equipment. Also beginning January 1, 2010, customers may use approved leasing as a financing option. In addition, leases less than 20 years are subject to a pro-rated rebate.

All customers applying for a BWP solar incentive are required to first conduct an energy-efficiency audit of the building where the solar system would be installed. Newly constructed residential and commercial buildings must achieve at least a 15% reduction in the building’s combined space heating, space cooling and water heating energy compared to Title 24 standards. Lighting is also included in this comparison for commercial buildings. Additionally, each appliance and any equipment provided by the builder must meet Energy Star criteria if this designation is applicable for that appliance or equipment. There is a limit of one solar rebate per customer for the life of the program.

Click here to read about BWP's rebates for residential solar water heaters.